I was looking forward to a fresh cup of carrot, beet, and ginger juice. The sauna session had been long and intense. Even though I had hydrated well, I knew the pick-me-up would do wonders! As I approached the counter, I realized that it was dark and the kitchen was quiet. Everything was still. Disappointment was my first reaction, curiosity my second.
The inspection sticker on the cabinet was in bright yellow. Without explanation it noted that the kitchen had failed inspection and was closed. The timing was immediate. The duration was indefinite. No details. No data or information; just a yellow sticker.
The next day I was back for another sauna session. Everything was different! The counter was open. Pots were on the stove bubbling away. The chopping sound of a knife as someone prepared food was music to my ears. Perhaps it was time!
As I looked for the sticker I could see the remnants still on the glass. Again, no explanation as to what had changed. I went to order and then paused remember an observation from another context. “You can’t have it both ways, banqueting with the Master one day and slumming with demons the next.” (1 Corinthians 10.21) Which day did this represent? Were the problems of yesterday fixed and resolved? Had someone simply scrapped off the inspection sticker?
I realized that I had no idea. There was no indication that anything had changed. The kitchen looked the same except for the lights and action. I could order but was it safe? I was looking for more than the absence of a problem. I was looking for the Grade A sticker I usually see in a food establishment. Whatever it was, it was not in plain sight.
I have no idea what I will do in the future. I do know on this day that I decided not to order anything. I enjoyed my water and reflection without the pick-me-up juice I often look for. I hope the sticker returns. It will be helpful when I next make a choice.
